Commuting On Oahu

As the old saying goes, “When in Rome…”

Here are a few helpful pointers to “Driving with Aloha!”

Non-Agressive Driving Style: Here in the islands we practice what is formally referred to as “Island Time.” While there are numerous meanings, when it comes to driving, it means following the speed limit and keeping up with the flow of traffic.

The island of Oahu is approximately 44 miles by 30 miles. Simply put, there’s no reason for one to drive at 75 mph on the H1. Additionally, in the Spirit of Aloha, drivers are respectfully-expected to let others merge. If someone needs to get over, let them; it’s not hard I promise! Learn to correctly give a “Shaka,” a simple hand movement to express your gratitude to your fellow driver.

That being said, some drivers take “Island Time” much too seriously when merging, and by this I mean, they may come to a complete stop when merging onto the freeway!! When you find yourself in this very likely scenario, remember to breathe slowly and deeply, stay off the horn, and be thankful for that great rate you get from USAA!

Ohana means Family, and Hawaii means No blaring CarHorns!At some point during your time on the island, you will get behind a fellow driver that insists a full and complete stop is needed in the middle of rush hour. Regardless, this does not afford you the option of taking your full out aggression on your car’s horn to show your disapproval.

Here in the islands, you do not make use of your car horn unless absolutely necessary. Rome, remember! (Exception: This rule may be broken when passing dedicated Navy Wives placing cups on the fence outside the Makalapa Gate of Pearl Harbor. In fact, I insist you “Tap, Tap” the horn to show your support!)

Lastly, let’s tackle Traffic: As mentioned before, Oahu has one of the worst traffic issues in the nation. Thankfully, Oahu has started construction on a rail system! But wait… there’s that pesky “Island Time!” Construction is estimated to be complete in the year 2019! Until then, you’ll need to quickly familiarize yourself with your route, and a few possible alternatives. Keep in mind that if there’s an accident, or a mere tire changing on the H1, you could be severely delayed. Leave yourself enough time for traffic AND parking. The more prep work, the less you’ll want to assault your steering wheel in lieu of your car horn!

Commuting Times: Below you’ll find a spreadsheet detailing a collection of data from real-live commuters. This information was collected, collaborated, and supplied all in an effort to help you know how much time to leave yourself to reach your destination. It should be used as a guide – your experience, undoubtedly, may differ. Please note HOV stands for High Occupancy Vehicle, 2 persons or more.

A huge thank you to everyone from HMW that took the time to supply us with your commute information and times, and a round of applause to those of you that ride a bike or a kayak to work. Now that my friends, is Living Aloha!

-Please note, the above data was collected in April of 2014, from information by unlisted persons on our Facebook Page and the Facebook HMW Private Group. We want this information to be spread far and wide, but please do not pass it off as your own. If you’d like to submit your own commute information and times, please email us at HawaiiMilitaryWives@gmail.com Mahalo!